Quick Blueberry Jam
This jam gains its thickness from chia seeds, which, when combined with a liquid, form a gel-like texture, replacing the need for pectin, an ingredient typically used in making jam. Plus, you get the added benefit of all the nutrients and fiber from the chia seeds.Makes approximately 1½ cups.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- ⅓ cup sugar or to taste (see cook’s note)
- Zest and juice from 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch kosher salt
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, add blueberries, sugar, and lemon zest and juice. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring, until some liquid releases. Reduce heat to low and add chia seeds, vanilla, and salt and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mixture has thickened and reduced slightly (as you stir, smash blueberries against side of saucepan with back of a spatula as they cook to help beak them down). Taste and adjust as desired. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
- Once cooled, either transfer mixture to a food processor and pulse until smooth or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
Cook’s note: This jam is not overly sweet so if you prefer yours a bit sweeter, use ½ cup of sugar instead.
